US-Israel-Iran war: What UAE residents need to know today, October 24, 2026
Diplomatic efforts are continuing across the region this weekend, as Saudi Arabia responds to ongoing Houthi attacks and attention remains on tensions between the US and Iran. Here’s a round-up of this evening’s key developments, along with the flight updates . With schedules on some regional routes still changing, travellers are advised to follow official channels and check with their airlines…
This weekend, diplomatic talks continue in the region amid ongoing Houthi attacks and US-Iran tensions. Several key developments have been reported. Iran has warned the US against deploying warships in the Gulf, stating that US forces would not be permitted to enter the Gulf "under any circumstances." The remarks came after the US ambassador to Turkey suggested Washington might strike Iran this weekend, according to Iranian state television.
The USS George Washington is being prepared in the Arabian Sea, with the ship loaded with munitions specifically designed to target underground nuclear sites and heavily fortified military infrastructure. Saudi Arabia's coalition has intercepted two ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis towards Taif and Yanbu, as well as a missile aimed at Riyadh, where two explosions were heard.
Saudi airstrikes have targeted Sanaa and the Mocha governorate in Yemen, causing casualties. Iran has reportedly prepared plans to target undersea internet cables in the Gulf if the US and Israel launch fresh attacks. US intelligence warns of increased Iranian efforts to target Americans in the Middle East, leading the US to order non-emergency embassy staff and families to leave Saudi Arabia.
Foreign ministers from several countries are meeting in Istanbul to discuss Iran and Yemen. Beaches in Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah have been temporarily closed following an oil spill, with clean-up operations underway. Flights between the UAE and Saudi Arabia are experiencing the most disruption, with Etihad Airways canceling Abu Dhabi-Dammam and Riyadh flights through November 5.
Emirates has canceled several Dubai services to Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh, along with some Medina return flights. flydubai has suspended flights to Riyadh, Dammam, Abha, and some Jeddah, Madinah, Gassim, and Tabuk services. Iranian airlines have suspended flights to and from the UAE.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
